Monday, December 30, 2013

(SAN DIEGO, CA) - Full Swing Golf Simulators is proud to celebrate the 20th anniversary in business of Full Swing Golf of Eastern Canada and its Golf-O-Max franchise. It was 20 years ago when Colette and Daniel Dubois first visited the Full Swing Golf headquarters in San Diego, in pursuit of opening an indoor golf facility - long before most people were even thinking about indoor golf.

"The Dubois family is truly a pioneer of indoor golf," says Chad Coleman, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Full Swing Golf. "We're honored that not only have they devoted their own facility in Quebec to indoor golf - helping put it on the map in Eastern Canada - but also trusted and promoted our equipment the entire way."

As Colette sees it, she knew they made the proper decision right from the get-go. "In May of 1993, we went to San Diego to meet with Floyd Arnold, who was the Founder and President of Full Swing Golf," she says. "We heard before that there was a new simulator available, and wanted to see it before we made our choice. Thank God we chose the Full Swing Golf simulator because it was more realistic than any other simulator on the market. At the time, Par T Golf was pretty known, but when we opened our Golf-O-Max facility on November 5, 1993, we saw how lucky we were to have the Full Swing Golf simulator."

That original Golf-O-Max, which is located in Boucherville Québec, was booked solid from December 20, 1993 through the end of April of 1994, all day, everyday. The place was perpetually booked two weeks in advance. "Mr. Arnold was so impressed with all of that success, he was phoning me every week to discuss," says Colette. "He was treating me like I was his daughter. Full Swing is like a big family and the simulator is so good, it helps a lot in keeping our customers."

In fact, Golf-O-Max became so popular so quickly that six investors approached the Dubois couple about starting their own Golf-O-Max. So they met with Arnold again, to obtain the distribution and protected territories for their investors. The next year, they opened six franchises, and then more in years to come.

"Twenty years later we are still open, and this year we did a big renovation, so we look like new," says Colette. "Our customers are very happy, and we're still getting a lot of new customers. Now, people say 'we're going to Golf-O-Max' instead of going to play to our competitor. In other words, Golf-O-Max means indoor golf in Canada."

Full Swing Golf manufactures and markets the leading indoor golf simulator to businesses and consumers worldwide. The diverse line of simulator products can be customized to fit the needs of various clientele, including golf professionals, retail businesses, residential communities, luxury resorts, teaching facilities, golf centers and homeowners.

Saturday, December 28, 2013

NGA TOUR, once again, provides players the most opportunity to move up in-season

(Myrtle Beach, S.C.) - The National Golf Association (NGA) Professional Golf Tour announced that the Web.com Tour’s BMW Charity Pro-Am, Price Cutter Charity Championship and News Sentinel Open have once again granted unrestricted exemptions to the NGA Tour for the upcoming 2014 season.

Since the start of the 2010 season, the NGA Tour has been granted 30 major event exemptions including seven in each of the past two seasons. The PGA TOUR’s Reno-Tahoe Open and Sanderson Farms Championship each awarded the NGA Tour event exemptions in 2013 with this being the second year in a row for the Reno-Tahoe Open. The 30 event exemptions are by far the most of any developmental tour in the country and you can be sure there will be more to come as the 2014 season draws near.

“This past season was another great one for the NGA Tour,” said Robin L. Waters, NGA Tour president. “We were able to secure seven Major event exemptions including two on the number one tour in the world. Our ultimate goal is to develop and prepare our players to be successful at golf’s highest levels and what better way than providing them the opportunity to compete against some of the best players in the world. We will continue to strive to get as many opportunities as we can for our players to help them achieve their goals and dreams of playing on the PGA and Web.com tours.”

The NGA Tour has a history of players moving up to golf’s top tours and more and more seem to be doing the job “in-season”. In 2011 Russell Knox and Ted Potter Jr. started the season as NGA Tour Pro Series members and would move up in-season after wins at the Chiquita Classic and the South Georgia Classic. Fellow NGAers Josh Broadaway, Billy Hurley, Matt Hendrix, Will Wilcox, and Casey Wittenberg also made the jump in-season in 2011. Matt Harmon is another example of an NGA member moving up in-season. The 2010 NGA Tour money title winner was awarded the NGA Tour event exemption into the 2012 TPC Stonebrae Championship. There he tied for 2nd earning exempt status for the remainder of the year. This year saw 2013 NGA Tour Pro Series members Blayne Barber and Peter Malnati, both with no status to start the year, and Nick Rousey and Zack Sucher, both with conditional status, all move up after having success in-season. Malnati would go on to win the News Sentinel Open, earning his membership on golf’s top tour for the 2013-14 season, where he has already had an 11th place finish in the OHL Classic.

Here is a look at the three events who have already granted the NGA Tour event exemptions for the upcoming 2014 season:

The BMW Charity Pro-Am is the only tournament on the number two tour where amateurs and celebrities are grouped with tour professionals in a four-day four-ball competition over three courses in the Greenville region of South Carolina. The partnership between the NGA Tour and the BMW Charity Pro-Am is a perfect fit as NGA Tour alumni have won the event an incredible 16 times in the 22 year history of the event, most recently by Mark Anderson in 2013. This will be the second consecutive year the NGA Tour has been granted an unrestricted exemption into the BMW Charity Pro-Am with this past season’s exemption being won by NGA Tour member Riley Wheeldon. The most recent NGA Tour alums to win the BMW Charity Pro-Am, in addition to Anderson, include Nick Flanagan (2012 & 2007), Garth Mulroy (2011), and Justin Hicks (2010), giving the NGA Tour four wins straight by their alumni. The BMW Charity Pro-Am is scheduled for May 12th thru 18th, 2014.

The Price Cutter Charity Championship is one of the oldest and most storied events in the tour’s history. Held at Highland Springs Country Club in Springfield, Mo., the Price Cutter Charity Championship is joined by Boise, Idaho, Knoxville, Tenn. and Wichita, Kan., in having hosted an event on the number two tour every year since 1990. This will be the second consecutive year the Price Cutter Charity Championship has awarded an unrestricted exemption to the NGA Tour. Blake Trimble was awarded this past season’s exemption for his playoff win at the NGA’s Florida Marine Open at Beau Chene Country Club in Mandeville, La. NGA Tour alumni have won four of the past five Price Cutter Charity Championships including Justin Bolli (2009), Steve Friesen (2011), Chris Wilson (2012), and 2013 Champion Andrew Svoboda. The Price Cutter Charity Championship is scheduled for August 4-10, 2014.

The News Sentinel Open has long been a stepping stone for former NGA Tour players in realizing their dream of playing on golf’s top tour. In addition to this year’s winner, Malnati, past champions include NGA Tour alumni Darron Stiles, Vaughn Taylor, Heath Slocum, Robin Freeman, Eric Johnson, Tim Conley and Chris Kirk. Fox Den Country Club has been the host venue in Knoxville every year since 1999. NGA Tour member Derek Rende secured the NGA Tour exemption into the News Sentinel Open this past season where he made the cut and finished tied for 60th, the fourth straight year the NGA Tour exemption winner has made the cut in the event. This will be the 5th consecutive year the NGA Tour has been awarded an unrestricted exemption into the event. The News Sentinel Open is scheduled to take place August 11-17, 2014.

The NGA Tour, the #3 men’s professional golf tour in the US and #1 most recommended developmental tour by top touring professionals, is currently taking memberships for the upcoming 2014 NGA Tour Pro Series season. Anyone wishing to join the NGA Tour for the upcoming 2014 season may do so by contacting the NGA Tour Offices. For more information on the NGA or the NGA Pro Golf Tour, please visit www.NGATOUR.com or contact Tour Offices at (800) 992-8748.

Thursday, December 26, 2013

(Sakata, JAPAN) - The PGA of America and PGA Worldwide Golf Exhibitions announced that HONMA will introduce new products and technologies across several equipment categories at the 61st PGA Merchandise Show, Jan. 21-24, in Orlando, Florida. During the 12th Annual PGA Show Outdoor Demo Day on Tuesday, Jan. 21, at Orange County National Golf Center & Lodge in Orlando, on Tee #1 Honma Golf will showcase its expansive 2014 equipment lineup, including its new S, E Series Woods, Irons and Utilities, offering PGA Professionals and retailers an opportunity to experience Honma's latest advances in club design.

From Jan. 22-24, Honma Golf will exhibit its full line of golf equipment within Booth #1257 of the PGA Show Equipment Hall of the Orange County Convention Center. Products will be available for hands-on testing within hitting bays of the Equipment Testing Center (ETC).

HONMA's eternal pursuit is to create the perfect club. No compromises. No derivatives. We represent our strength in product development, innovation, and passion to create the best golf club. We do not follow only tradition to create one of a kind clubs, but our dream is state of the art integration with innovation. To bring the best performance out of every club, we must use innovation to its fullest for better distance, direction, and precision. This only occurs when the craftsman's art and sensibilities are developed in a product, in turn creates a connection with what the golfer wants. Our vision of advancement in club performance is always how we deliver the golfer's dream and passion for the game.

(Missoula, Montana) – Sun Mountain continues to offer more choices within its ClubGlider line of golf travel bags. The next evolution in travel bags, ClubGlider is the only golf travel bag that offers extendable legs and wheels to support 100% of the weight, while eliminating the repeated bending and lifting required with traditional travel bags. For 2014, ClubGlider is available in four different models – Pro, Meridian, Journey and the new Tour Series – offering protection for golfers ranging from weekend warriors to touring professionals. Retail prices are $349, $289, $219, and $319 respectively. For the retailer nearest you call 800-227-9224 or visit www.sunmountain.com.

ClubGlider glides from parking lot to luggage counter thanks to legs that extend and support 100% of the weight and pivoting caster wheels that handle corners and curbs with ease. Once checked-in, the legs easily tuck away securely for carefree travel. ClubGlider offers all of the protection and storage space of a traditional golf travel bag while eliminating the heavy lifting and the need to bend over to pick up and set down every time the check-in line moves three feet.

Making the cut from over 1,000 entrants in the Golf Channel “Fore Inventors Only” reality show, ClubGlider was named one of five finalists in this search for the next great golf invention. Following a successful introduction, Sun Mountain increased the offering to include additional models. ClubGlider Meridian is the name of the original ClubGlider. ClubGlider Pro is the largest of the models made to accommodate tour players’ oversized staff bags or two lightweight carry bags. ClubGlider Journey is a smaller and lighter version and the new for 2014 Tour Series was designed to coordinate with the new Tour Series line of golf bags.

Benefits of ClubGlider include legs that support 100% of the weight, eliminating on average over 45 pounds of pressure from the golfer’s shoulders and back. ClubGlider can also be loaded while standing, eliminating the need to bend all the way over as with other travel bags. Additionally, with the ClubGlider, the repeated bending and lifting while waiting in line is a thing of the past. ClubGlider is simple, fast and easy to use with retractable legs and wheels that lock securely for travel. ClubGlider includes heavy-duty two-way zippers, thick foam padding extending down the travel bag to protect clubheads and shafts, storage pockets, internal cinch straps, reinforced wear areas, and a lift-assist handle.

For 30 years Sun Mountain has been a pioneer in the golf industry, revolutionizing golf bags, golf outerwear and golf carts. Sun Mountain's many innovations, including the first lightweight golf bag and modern stand bag, have made it the top golf bag company in North America. Within golf outerwear, Sun Mountain redefined golf-specific performance first with the windshirt, then fleece, and again with its four-way stretch, waterproof, and breathable rainwear. The Sun Mountain Speed Cart golf push cart transformed walking carts and created an entirely new category of golf products. Sun Mountain's "Ahead of Time Design" motto drives the company to continually design and refine golf equipment.

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

(LOS CABOS, Mexico) - Situated at the southernmost tip of the Baja Peninsula and home to Mexico's most top-shelf golf offerings, Los Cabos has established itself as a coveted, world-class golf getaway over the past two decades; and now with the announcement of three new courses on the horizon Los Cabos will continue to rise above the rest.

Boasting nearly a dozen courses designed by the game's leading architects, Los Cabos commands a unique ocean-mountain-desert ecosystem found nowhere else in the hemisphere. This unusual combination of environments has sparked the imagination of developers-and resulted in the creation of the "Next Great Place" for international golf travelers.

Home to four of the top five courses in Mexico according to Golf Digest's current 'Planet Golf' rankings, Los Cabos plans to raise the stakes in 2014, when the two best-known figures in the sport, Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus, will unveil new creations at Diamante and Quivira, respectively.

"We could not be happier to welcome these three courses, designed by some of the best in the industry, to our destination, said Eduardo Segura, Managing Director of the Los Cabos Tourism Board, "Already home to some of the best golf offerings in the world, the addition of these courses will truly raise the bar of excellence and take the Los Cabos' golf scene to the next level."

Closer at hand, Chileno Bay, a long-awaited resort development fronting one of the most desirable beaches in Los Cabos, will debut its dazzling Tom Fazio-designed course on December 31, 2013. Routed in desert foothills high above the Sea of Cortes, each hole on this beautiful newcomer has graceful, flowing landforms intended to simulate rolling ocean waves. Framed by sculpted bunkers, broad arroyos and feathery "champagne grass," Chileno Bay builds to a climax at the long par-4 18th, which tumbles downhill to a sprawling green back dropped by the sea.

Diamante, a timeshare development built on massive sand dunes above the Pacific Ocean a few miles north of Cabo San Lucas, simulates the sensation of playing a treeless, windswept, Scottish-style links. As an added attraction, golfers can view whales breaching close to shore during the winter months. Diamante's top-rated Dunes Course, designed by Davis Love III, offers tee times to prospective property buyers. Love and his design team recently returned to Diamante to replace the inland 12th and 13th holes with a new pair of holes routed in enormous dunes nearer the sea. These holes will debut in mid-2014. Later next year the Dunes Course will be joined by El Cardonal, an inland layout with an "Old California" design motif that will mark the architectural debut of superstar Tiger Woods.

Adjacent to Diamante at the Pueblo Bonito development is Quivira, a breathtaking layout by Jack Nicklaus that starts at sea level near the pounding surf before climbing to higher ground, where the panoramic views and topographical diversity are unsurpassed. "Our team is working with the canvas Mother Nature has provided to create one of the most spectacular courses in the world," Nicklaus said of his sixth and perhaps final course in Los Cabos. Marked by windswept dunes, steep cliffs and raw desert, Quivira has the potential to redefine the Cabo golf experience and is expected to rank among Nicklaus's most memorable creations. The $40 million golf development at Quivira is tentatively scheduled to open in summer, 2014.

With its consistently sunny weather, low humidity and cooling sea breezes, the climate in Cabo is perfect for golf. The corridor's scalloped coastline, washed by the Sea of Cortes, is home to more multi-starred, "gran turismo" hotels than any other destination in Mexico. In addition, the plethora of activities favored by golfers and non-golfers alike includes fishing (deep-sea and in-shore), surfing, sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, whale watching cruises, desert jeep tours, exceptional shopping, eclectic dining, and dawn-to-dusk nightlife.

Monday, December 23, 2013

Real Estate Investment Company Purchases Premier Coastal South Carolina Community

(Raleigh, N.C.) – Representatives from LStar announced the company has successfully closed on the purchase of the 2,200-acre Grande Dunes oceanfront community located in Myrtle Beach, S.C. LStar’s acquisition includes the exclusive 27,000 square-foot Member’s Club and its 18-hole golf course; the Ocean Club’s 25,000 square-foot clubhouse, restaurant and pool complex fronting onto the Atlantic Ocean; the Grande Dunes Tennis Club’s 10 tennis courts, clubhouse and fitness center; the 131-slip Grande Dunes Marina (capable of accommodating boats to 120 feet in length), and the waterfront Anchor Café. The purchase includes 770 acres of undeveloped land that can accommodate significant residential and commercial development. Additional information about the community can be found at www.GrandeDunes.com.

LStar intends to work closely and collaboratively with the community’s existing residents and city officials to build upon the existing world-class amenities and re-envision one of the Southeast’s finest luxury oceanfront destinations for current and future residents and guests.

LStar is partnering with the highly-regarded McConnell Golf to oversee management of golf and club operations at the Members Club at Grande Dunes, Ocean Club at Grande Dunes and the Anchor Café. Justin Good of Cushman & Wakefield Thalhimer represented the seller.

“We are immensely proud be the new owners of Grande Dunes and look forward to working with the property owners and city officials to enhance its reputation and value as the Southeast’s unparalleled waterfront residential community,” said Kyle Corkum, managing partner, LStar Management. “We have placed highly motivated and experienced leadership on this project and are committed to a long-term strategy of exceptional stewardship of this unique property. Our focus from day one will be to employ a long-term strategy for visionary growth that seeks to increase the value and reputation of the community while providing the finest standards of customer service for our members and guests.”

“As our company enters its second decade,” said John McConnell, president and CEO, McConnell Golf, “we could not imagine a better first partner than LStar, nor a more quality-first client than Grande Dunes.

“We plan on taking a different and unique approach when offering our services compared to some other golf or club management companies. First, we are very selective in choosing projects, we have tons of talent working for our clubs that we can redeploy and we can make decisions very fast. Adding seven private clubs to our portfolio over the past six years taught us to be flexible and spot efficiencies, while adding back value to our membership in an overwhelming way.”

(South Miami, FL) - An innovative new product designed to increase the driving ability of golfers who utilize it, the Power Driver, has been developed by Anthony Flanagan of Waterbury, Connecticut. The invention’s unique design provides its users with a proven method of being able to strike the “sweet spot” on a golf ball on each swing.

Those who actively play golf have a reputation for sparing little interest or expense for any product or accessory that promises to help increase their chances of success on the course. As a result, a number of items have been developed over time that address the many different aspects of the practice of the sport that can always use fine tuning, such as the mechanics of a person’s swing. A related area in which avid golfers are always seeking improvement is the distance they can achieve with their drives, which has a direct correlation to the degree of success they will experience with their overall game.

With these types of challenges in mind, the Power Driver has been conceived. The Power Driver allows its users to enjoy increased distance on their drives with minimal effort. The Power Driver will greatly enhance the enjoyment of a round of golf. Additionally, it will be competitively priced as compared to other golf products, adding to its appeal. Furthermore, the product will be fabricated from durable materials, making it a wise long-term investment.

The Power Driver is also in patent pending status with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

Mr. Flanagan now seeks a third party licensee to manufacture, market, and distribute the product for him under a royalty agreement. Potential licensees in the golf products industry are currently being targeted as candidates to eventually commercialize the Power Driver on a worldwide basis.

In May 2013, Mr. Flanagan contracted product management services leader Innovation Direct to represent the Power Driver to potential licensees for a two-year period. Innovation Direct obtains the maximum amount of exposure for the products that it represents through its unique and patented licensing methodology and its participation in multiple and diverse industry-leading trade shows each year. Exhibits that Innovation Direct has attended in recent years include the SHOT Show, the International Home and Housewares Show, the National Hardware Show, Licensing International, the SEMA and AAPEX Shows and the ERA D2C Convention.

Potential licensees interested in obtaining more information about the Power Driver and discussing licensing opportunities with respect to the product can contact the Manufacturer Response Department of Innovation Direct at (877) 991-0909 ext. 4285 or at MR@innovationdirectonline.com.

Sunday, December 22, 2013

Tifosi Optics may have started with an eye on cycling, but has made a major splash in the world of golf. Whether you’re racing down the road on two wheels or standing on the 18th tee with water to the left and out of bounds encroaching on the right, you need performance eyewear and Tifosi delivers.

Take the Podium XC, for example. Made from a homopolyamide nylon characterized by an extremely high alternative bending strength, low density and high resistance to chemical and UV damage, they’re ideal for the golf course.

Sweat when the heat is on? Don’t worry. The hydrophilic rubber ear and nose pieces offer a no-slip fit. Both ear and nose pieces are adjustable for a customizable, comfortable fit, as well.

While swapping lenses is ideal to move between sports, we’re talking about golf and the GT lens enhances your game. Whether spotting the ball in flight or reading the contrasts in the green without battling the sun’s glare, you’ll appreciate what Tifosi has to bring on the course.

Tifosi offers all the benefits of the leading performance eyewear without the hefty sticker price that often accompanies top-shelf brands. Check them out for yourself at www.tifosioptics.com.

(PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla.) – PGA Golf Club at PGA Village – the premier public-access resort with 54 championship holes by legendary architects Tom Fazio and Pete Dye; the 35-acre PGA Center for Golf Learning and Performance; and the iconic PGA Museum of Golf – is introducing a new Winter Escape Stay-and-Play special offer for golf enthusiasts.

Three-night, four-day escapes start at $600 per person. Valued at more than $1,200, this special package features:
* Three rounds of golf at PGA Golf Club
* Three nights of full-scale accommodations at Perfect Drive Villas
* One 60-minute Trackman club analysis at the PGA Center for Golf Learning and Performance
* A $25 food and beverage coupon for each golfer
* All visitors to PGA Golf Club enjoy year-round complimentary admission to the PGA Museum of Golf

Available dates are Jan. 1–April 30, 2014. Rates per golfer are based on four people sharing a two-bedroom villa. Prices are subject to availability and do not include taxes.

Some of the best weather in the country occurs in South Florida during the winter, with average high temperatures in the 70s during January and February.

“PGA Golf Club is one of America’s premier destinations for golfers from around the world,” said PGA Golf Club General Manager Jimmy Terry. “Our fun and affordable Winter Escape Stay-and-Play packages are a perfect opportunity to travel to South Florida during what most people consider the best time of the year for weather and course conditions.”

Located an hour north of West Palm Beach, Fla., PGA Golf Club features an array of exceptionally conditioned and challenging layouts.

The Wanamaker Course by Fazio provides a stunning backdrop against breathtaking palm trees and palmettos. His distinct Carolina touch is also evident on the Ryder Course with rolling hills, majestic pines and challenging water hazards. Weaving through 100 acres of wetlands, the Dye Course is a links-style layout with pine straw rough, vast coquina waste bunkers and grass-based bunkers.

The nearby PGA Center for Golf Learning & Performance, a golf instruction, practice, technology and fitness park provides the ultimate learning environment for players of all levels. With 100 swing stations and nine bunker types simulating play from around the world, the highly acclaimed training facility is an ideal destination to tune up for the 2014 season.

The on-site PGA Museum of Golf features the game’s four major Championship trophies and the Vardon Trophy on display; Donald Ross’ workbench from 1900; vast Ryder Cup and PGA Championship memorabilia, including a full-scale replica of 2012 PGA Champion Rory McIllroy’s outfit; and a tribute to 2013 PGA Champion Jason Dufner.

(HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA) – Srixon announced that Inbee Park has agreed to terms on a multi-year contract extension to remain a member of their professional tour staff. The 25-year-old South Korean is currently ranked No.1 on the Rolex Women’s World Rankings and also the reigning LPGA Player of the Year. A nine-time LPGA Tour winner, Park had six victories in 2013, including three straight majors.

“We are thrilled that Ms. Park has decided to remain a member of Srixon’s tour staff,” said Todd Harman, President of Cleveland Golf/Srixon - U.S.A. “Ms. Park’s outstanding 2013 season has not only validated her as the most dominant women’s player, but it has also cemented her legacy as one of the premier golfers in the history of the game. Her decision to remain part of the Srixon family says a lot to us regarding how she feels about our products and our company.”

Park’s contract extension includes a Srixon golf ball and Srixon golf clubs, as well as Cleveland wedges. She will continue to wear Srixon gloves, carry a Srixon bag while also maintaining a Srixon logo on the side of her headwear.

“I am very excited to extend my relationship with Srixon. They have provided me the best clubs, balls and other products,” said Inbee Park. “I thank the Srixon team for all their support and I look forward to playing Srixon products on tour.”

(KAUA‘I, Hawaii) – The Kaua‘i Visitors Bureau announces several island golf courses and resorts have captured recent national awards from Golfweek, LINKS Magazine and Golf Range, as well as distinction from regional media outlets.

The Prince Course at Princeville Golf Club (No. 23), Kaua‘i Lagoons Golf Club (No. 84) and Princeville Makai Golf Club (No. 86) were honored in Golfweek’s annual “Top 100 Resort Courses” list, compiled by raters from across the country based on criteria such as routing, conditioning, memorability and variety of holes.

Poipu Bay Golf Course was included in the “Next 100” Resort Course ratings from Golfweek.

The St. Regis Princeville Resort on the island’s North Shore was included in LINKS Magazine’s “Top 25 Golf Resorts of the World” edition. The resort sits adjacent to Princeville Makai Golf Club, which features the 18-hole Makai course and the 9-hole Woods course. The newly expanded practice facility at The Prince Course, another North Shore layout featuring scintillating vistas of the Pacific Ocean, has been named to Golf Range Magazine’s “Top-50 Golf Ranges” for Public Facilities for a second straight year.

Puakea Golf Course – a local favorite set at the base of the majestic Mount Ha’upu – recently earned “Best in Kaua‘i” honors from This Week Kaua‘i magazine and has been ranked as the No. 15 course in Hawaii by Golfweek.

“We are gratified that the superb golf courses and resorts continue to receive widespread critical recognition,” says Sue Kanoho, Executive Director of the Kaua‘i Visitors Bureau. “The island’s beauty, history and quality of resort accommodation options, beaches and outdoor activities complement each other, providing experiences that draw visitors from around the world.”

(PEORIA, AZ) - The Antigua Group, Inc. - one of the nation's leading designers and marketers of lifestyle and golf apparel under the distinguished Antigua brand - has introduced the 2014 Antigua Storm Suit.

The 100% polyester, waterproof and seam-sealed suit is packable. It fits easily into a small golf bag - even the carry or stand bags that have small pockets. It's incredibly lightweight and travels well. A number of hidden features make it comfortable to wear, including pass-through pockets, an elastic draw cord waistband, an adjustable bungee toggle bottom hem, and hidden zipper pocket on the inside left chest. Storm Suit is available in small thru XXL, in always fashionable black, and retails for $125. It's the perfect lightweight and affordable rainsuit.

"I personally carry Storm Suit in my bag," says Ron McPherson, President and CEO of Antigua. "It's versatile, lightweight, fits really well and works great in the rain! And it keeps me warm in the cold and wind."

Antigua uses lightweight stretch material in its outerwear, to keep golfers comfortable in a wide temperature range. The introduction of stand-alone outerwear pieces as options in golf outerwear also expands the potential for these additions to be utilized as layering options. Antigua has the resources, and an advanced research and development department, to produce viable authentic rainwear that matches the viability of its performance collections. That is, building quality and functionality while creating current design styling and detailing that the golf market has come to desire and accept.

(MARLBOROUGH, MA) – CHAMP/MacNeill Engineering Worldwide – The World Leader in Sport Cleat Technology and maker of innovative CHAMP spikes, high-performance golf tees and accessories – confirms that its renowned spikes were used by both members of the victorious team at the PGA Tour’s Franklin Templeton Shootout.

Trusting the Zarma and ScorpionSTINGER models, respectively, the champions sealed up their record-breaking performance with a final round 56 at Tiburón Golf Club in Naples, FL. This victory closes a very strong 2013 campaign for CHAMP, which saw the brand capture more than 50 wins on professional Tours worldwide, including 21 on the PGA Tour and two major championships.

“Year after year, Tour players around the world continue to show a strong preference for our technologically advanced spikes,” says Harris MacNeill, President and CEO of CHAMP/MacNeill Engineering Worldwide. “These competitors are among the most discerning athletes in the world when it comes to their equipment, so it is no surprise that they consistently choose the superior traction, comfort and stability found in our products.”

A pioneer in spike technology, CHAMP is The #1 Brand on Tour. Its popular models have aided 32 of golf’s last 44 major championship winners.

Beyond the cleat category, the company offers a wide range of products, including the Zarma FLYtee™ lines and an upcoming grip collection, which showcases a variety of groundbreaking features never before seen in the industry.

Drawing from MacNeill Engineering’s unrivalled 80-plus year heritage, the FLYtee line has quickly become one of the most-used tees by leading professionals worldwide. The new FLYteePRO model is infused with a specially-engineered polymer that makes it nearly indestructible. Like its predecessors, the PRO model showcases a six-pronged head and shallow cup to reduce friction at impact, promoting longer and straighter drives.

Designed with a strong emphasis on technical innovation and game-improving performance, five CHAMP grip models will be available to consumers in early 2014. The new collection has gained a loyal following among Tour players, who recognize the superior feel, durability and performance characteristics inherent to each line. More information is available at www.champgrips.com.

With more than 100 active distributors, CHAMP is the world’s largest manufacturer of replaceable spikes. The company is the dominant global brand in football, soccer, golf, baseball, cricket, rugby and other sports.

Thursday, December 19, 2013

Win a raffle and play golf with NFL legends Jerry Rice, Chris Doleman and 25 U.S. disabled veterans on the great links of Ireland

Salute Military Golf Association (SMGA) and Golf Digest Irish Tours, in partnership with Warriors for Freedom Foundation and Folds of Honor Foundation, have joined forces with NFL Hall of Fame wide receiver Jerry Rice, a scratch golfer, and NFL Hall of Fame defensive end Chris Doleman, a 3-handicap, to help disabled U.S. veterans recover from their injuries through the great game of golf.

Staff Sgt. Ramon Padilla (Ret.)

This fabulous prize includes golf at Waterville, Lahinch, Tralee, Old Head, Dooks and Ballybunion, flights, accommodations, caddies or carts and all meals. This once-in-a-lifetime golf trip will take place September 13-20, 2014, and you could be going for just $10.

Here’s how the raffle works:
Online at www.freedomtourireland.com, you can buy one ticket for $10; three tickets for $25; five tickets for $35; seven tickets and an SMGA Nike golf shirt for $125; 10 tickets and an SMGA Nike wind-shirt for $175; 15 tickets and an SMGA Nike golf bag for $375.

One lucky winner, to be selected on June 10, 2014, will join the 25 wounded veterans and NFL Hall of Famers Jerry Rice and Chris Doleman on the Freedom Golf Tour of Ireland.

Says Chris Doleman: “I totally believe in the mission of the Salute Military Golf Association, using golf to improve disabled veterans’ recovery and gain a better quality of life for them and their families.”

Adds Jerry Rice: “Now, Golf Digest Irish Tours is taking that recovery one step further with this fabulous trip to Ireland. We must never forget the sacrifices made by our veterans, and we should always be proud of their inspirational achievements. We’re very excited and honored to be helping these heroes in any way we can. I hope everyone buys a raffle ticket and we raise as much money as possible to support the SMGA’s nine golf programs around the United States.”

Jamie Winslow, co-founder of SMGA, said, “We are very grateful that Jerry Rice and Chris Doleman have teamed up with SMGA and Golf Digest Irish Tours. They are fantastic role models, and together we will help raise much needed awareness for the wounded men and women who have stepped forward to serve this great nation of ours.”

Fourteen months ago, Golf Digest Irish Tours founder Linton Walsh brought 11 disabled veterans to Ireland for a once-in-a-lifetime golfing experience on the greatest courses the country has to offer. The trip was a huge success, and because of the positive feedback and response of the participating veterans, the trip planners have decided to create a new trip, this time concentrating on the Southwest. The disabled veterans and Ambassador/Donors will play Ballybunion, Lahinch, Tralee, Waterville, Dooks and Old Head. They will stay at the Killarney Plaza Hotel and Dromoland Castle, two of Ireland’s iconic and most luxurious guest accommodations.

All the costs for the veterans and their spouses will be funded through donations from Ambassador/Donors, most of whom will also be going on the trip, and from raffle tickets purchased online for a chance to spend a week in Ireland with NFL Hall of Fame wide receiver Jerry Rice, a scratch golfer, and NFL Hall of Fame defensive end Chris Doleman, a 3-handicap. Rice and Doleman were recently featured on Golf Channel’s show “Big Break NFL Puerto Rico.”

Because most of the trip is holistic—there will be rehabilitative seminars for the veterans and their spouses throughout the week—and all donations are made through Warriors for Freedom, a 501 (c) (3), up to 87 percent of the cost to the Ambassdor/Donors is tax deductible.

SMGA, a 501 (c) (3) co-founded by noted PGA professional Jim Estes, Director of Instruction at Olney Golf Park in Maryland, and Jamie Winslow, Senior Director of Government Affairs for the Sumitomo Corporation of America and a former Division I varsity golfer at George Washington University, is dedicated to providing rehabilitative golf experiences and family-inclusive golf opportunities for post-9/11 disabled veterans. The SMGA believes the rehabilitative benefits of golf can improve the mental and physical condition of every post-9/11 disabled veteran.

Warriors for Freedom Foundation, a 501 (c) (3), provides support to our nation’s military heroes and their families in the areas of outdoor activities, employment, homelessness, diversion programs, as well as promotes awareness of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) and Combat Stress Reaction (CSR).

Folds of Honor Foundation, a 501 (c) (3), provides post-secondary educational scholarships for children and spouses of military service men and women killed or disabled while serving our great nation. To date, more than 5,400 scholarships have been awarded through the Folds of Honor.

The epidemic of slow play is put to rest with use of Bushnell's laser rangefinders

(Overland Park, KS) - Bushnell Golf, makers of the No. 1 laser rangefinder on the PGA Tour for more than a decade, teamed up with California-based National University Golf Academy to conduct a speed of play study. The results of the study concluded that laser rangefinders improved speed of play during a round of golf amongst mid- to high-index players reducing a full round of golf by nearly 30 minutes.

"We're delighted to have teamed up with National University Golf Academy to conduct a speed of play study and proud to have proven that the use of a laser rangefinder can reduce the time it takes to play a round of golf," said Phil Gyori, Bushnell Managing Director - North America. "Golf is a great game and making the experience more enjoyable for the player is at the forefront of our products."

National University Golf Academy provided students with handicaps ranging from six to 18 to participate in the study. Golfers played one round with a laser rangefinder and a second round without any electronic measuring devices. With the use of a Bushnell Golf Laser Rangefinder, the 6-13 index players finished their round in four hours and 15 minutes, an improvement of nearly 30 minutes when playing a round without a laser rangefinder. The 14-18 index players saw a 17-minute improvement finishing in four hours and sixteen minutes.

"Pace of play is at the forefront of so many discussions when it comes to the game of golf," said Ted Norby, Director of Instruction at National University Golf Academy. "Using a product like the Bushnell Laser Rangefinders allowed mid-level handicap players to make a decision on club selection and yardage much quicker, leading to a faster place of play."

The study took place at the Santaluz Club in San Diego, Calif., over the course of two days.

Bushnell, the No. 1 choice of professional golfers, offers a full selection of rangefinders that continue to change and improve the way golfers assess distances, ultimately improving performance.

For more information on the Bushnell family of rangefinders, visit the company's website at www.bushnellgolf.com.

(Romeoville, IL) - After two years of course construction that resulted in a substantial face-lift, owner Jim McWethy looks upon Mistwood Golf Club in suburban Chicago with satisfaction and pride because the golf world has noticed.

GOLF Magazine has awarded Mistwood with its "Best U.S. Renovation You Can Play" honors for 2013.

The recognition comes as part of GOLF Magazine's annual Best New Courses 2013, which is published in the January 2014 issue. The article features the top new courses and renovations both in the U.S. and internationally.

"It is a tremendous honor to be selected as the Best U.S. Renovation You Can Play by GOLF Magazine and to be recognized alongside so many great courses," McWethy said. "We wanted to elevate Mistwood into the ranks of the best courses in the Midwest, and this award is a testament to the vision and quality of work that architect Ray Hearn and our team performed on this project. I could not be more proud of what we have accomplished."

GOLF Magazine concurred in its appraisal with the selection.

"The result? Mission accomplished. Mistwood may have been young for a face-lift, but this beauty is ready for its close-up," the magazine reported.

The magazine also talked about Hearn winning the same renovation award for his work at Chicago's historic Flossmoor Country Club in 2009.

Hearn, who has a strong reputation for his course and renovation work, first completed the Mistwood project in 1998. Thirteen years later the course was ready for some upgrades and improvements.

"We fine-tuned and polished a gem," Hearn said.

Renovation work was performed on every one of Mistwood's 18-holes, with a focus on improving shot value and strategy. The most noticeable was at the par-5 third hole where the green has been relocated to create space for a future clubhouse and a double fairway for risk-reward. The creek that used to be in front of the green is now behind it, and it has been expanded with a pond guarding the entire right side of the hole.

Mistwood's renovation also included the addition of 20 stacked sod-wall bunkers, a trademark hazard for courses in Scotland and Ireland, and now a signature feature at Mistwood. Many of the courses' lakes and bodies of water were also expanded making them a strategic factor on several holes.

In addition, new beautiful Lannon stone walls were added along holes 3, 7, 8, 9 14, 15 and 16 to add some stunning visuals for golfers to experience. Other improvements included repositioning tee boxes and bunkers, adding new high quality bunker sand, lengthening the course to 7,040 yards, and adding fescue grasses throughout the course.

"I am extremely proud of my redesign work at Mistwood," Hearn said. "In my 27-year career I would definitely rank this project as one of my favorites and owner, Jim McWethy, as one of the most passionate individuals I have worked with."

McWethy has made extraordinary major facility improvements since taking ownership in 2004. In addition to the work on the course, the creation of the new Performance Center, with its indoor-outdoor hitting bays, elite swing technology, and custom club fitting, has been the talk of Chicago area golf.

"A big part of this renovation and expansion was due to my love of the game," McWethy said. "Mistwood is now truly a must-see, must-play golf course and stands among the elite golf courses in the Midwest."

To help meet growing demand for the popular men's golf apparel brand, Lohman will be in charge of developing a seasoned team of professional and experienced Brand Ambassadors in key industry territories that will provide service to Devereux's valuable retailers. Those Brand Ambassadors will partner with specialty retailers, to provide valuable product knowledge and merchandising support.

"I've been very blessed throughout my career to work with some of the very best companies and people in the golf industry, and that has prepared me for this amazing opportunity to join Devereux as a partner," says Lohman. "I'm excited to be a part of a lifestyle brand that's redefining golf fashion for the modern man. Devereux's 'Proper Threads' mission is to provide today's gentleman with a design aesthetic that represents a cool, contemporary sophistication and elevated luxury, and brings together progressive-yet-timeless fashion with functionality that's truly missing in our golf industry today. I admire where the company is headed and am thrilled that we have a strong vision, directive and team in place."

The Devereux lifestyle is unique to the golf industry, in that it's focused on providing a solution to the needs of today's contemporary gentleman who seeks a brand that's luxurious, stylish, comfortable and functional for whatever their day demands. The Devereux brand allows retailers to capture this rapidly growing consumer demographic and maximize their retail sales opportunities.

For the past 20-plus years, Lohman has worked in the golf/resort/specialty industry for the likes of Fletcher Leisure Group, Nike Golf Accessories, Tommy Hilfiger Golf, Doubletree Hotel Corporation and the Pointe Hilton Hotels.

(SHELTON, Wash.) – Salish Cliffs Golf Club (www.Salish-Cliffs.com) – the amenity course of Little Creek Casino Resort, located within an easy drive of Olympia and Seattle – realized double-digit increases in rounds played and corresponding revenue for the 2013 fiscal year.

Rounds played at the highly acclaimed Gene Bates design improved more than 22 percent, compared to National Golf Foundation 2013 numbers that show a 5.2-percent decrease, nationwide. In addition, green fees revenue at Salish Cliffs was up nearly 19 percent, and retail sales soared more than 42 percent above 2012 figures.

“It’s gratifying to see Salish Cliffs continue to buck the industry trend and achieve increases across the board,” said Head Golf Professional David Kass, PGA. “Our guests have always appreciated playing a nationally acclaimed course with top-notch conditions at an affordable rate. Our success is a true credit to the dedication and vision of Little Creek Casino Resort and the Squaxin Island Tribe.”

Owned and operated by the Squaxin Island Tribe, Salish Cliffs was honored by GOLF Magazine and Golf Digest as a “Best New Course” shortly after its 2011 opening. The awards have continued throughout the last two years as Salish Cliffs earned top-10 status in Golf Digest’s biennial “2013-14 America’s Greatest Courses” by state and Golfweek’s “Top-50 Best Casino Courses.” In October, it was named a top-100 “Best Resort Course” in America by Golfweek.

Salish Cliffs also became the first “Salmon-Safe” certified golf course in the world last year, verifying the tribe’s commitment to protect natural habitat.

Stay-and-Play packages are available and include accommodations at Little Creek Casino Resort, which in addition to offering a wide variety of gaming tables and machines, recently opened Seven Inlets Spa, Skookum Spirit Cigar & Wine Lounge and a state-of-the-art RV Park.

For the lowest rates available, book online at www.salish-cliffs.com where tee times can be booked with a major credit card up to 30 days in advance. Advanced tee-time booking up to 60 days in advance is available for those with confirmed Little Creek Casino Resort hotel reservations by calling the golf shop at 360.462.3673.

(NEW YORK CITY, NY) - The NCAA's football Bowl season has arrived, which means many golfers who are college football fans will be showing their school spirit on the golf course through ClubCrown by Vive. The company's top-quality, high-tech films are professionally installed on the crowns of drivers, fairway woods and hybrids, through licensing deals with 57 major universities. The films that bear the university logos instantly transform ordinary clubheads - regardless of their physical condition -- into fresh-looking, durable-finish fashion statements that alumni and fans will be proud to showcase in their golf bags.

"Our first NCAA Football season with collegiate licenses could not have gone any better," says Brendan Doyle, President and CMO of the company. "We are proud to offer 20 of the top 25 BCS teams, including both of the teams vying for the National Championship. We always knew collegiate licenses would be big for our business, but we never imagined it would be this big!"

To commemorate both the company's success with its NCAA licensing deal, as well as the BCS National Championship, ClubCrown will release 50 limited-edition ClubCrowns for the winner of the National Championship. "Will it be Auburn or Florida State?," asks Doyle. "It will all be decided January 6, 2014. It's very exciting, and we'll be prepared to carry over that celebration onto the golf course."

ClubCrowns can be found at a vast network of retailers around the country. Visit www.clubcrown.com for locations.

Wednesday, December 18, 2013

(CARLSBAD, CALIF.) – TaylorMade Golf Company today announced the release of the SLDR 430 – a more compact version of the SLDR 460, currently the No. 1 driver on the PGA Tour. Packaged in a stunning 430cc club head with a modern-classic shape and rich charcoal-gray crown, the company expects better players to flock to the 430 version, which features a smaller tour-inspired head to promote improved workability.

“We put low forward CG in a smaller head to make a driver that tour pros love,” said Brian Bazzel, TaylorMade’s Senior Director of Product Creation for Metalwoods. “SLDR 430 makes it easier to shape shots without sacrificing distance.”

The 430 model features the same distance-producing technology found in its big brother: low and forward center of gravity placement that promotes a hotter launch, lower spin and faster ball speed.

In addition to the low-forward CG benefits, SLDR 430 also incorporates the same innovative sliding weight mechanism TaylorMade introduced with the SLDR 460. A blue 20-gram weight slides on a track located on the front of the sole. Movable weight shifts the clubhead’s CG horizontally toward either the heel, to promote a draw, or toward the toe, to promote a fade.

SLDR delivers six millimeters of movement – that’s 50% more than R1 – promoting a shot-dispersion range of up to 30 yards. The SLDR weight slides on a 21-point track system and never comes loose from the clubhead. To position the weight in any one of them simply loosen the screw, slide the weight to the point selected, then tighten the screw. Golfers can adjust for a “draw” or “fade” by sliding the weight across the slider track into the appropriate position in as little as 10 seconds.

Nearly 10 years ago, TaylorMade brought to market its first movable weight driver, the r7 quad –which featured four small weight cartridges that could be used to change the head’s CG location and influence ball flight. Since that release, TaylorMade’s R&D team has been searching for a way to improve and simplify MWT. The company believes SLDR’s new sliding system is a significant leap forward in its quest to engineer a driver that offers outstanding performance with simple and intuitive technology.

SLDR also incorporates TaylorMade’s Loft-sleeve Technology, which allows the golfer to easily adjust the loft. Golfers can choose from 12 positions within a range of plus-or-minus 1.5 degrees of loft change. The more loft added, the more the face closes and vice-versa.

Pricing, Options and Availability
Available in three lofts – 9.5°, 10.5° and 12°, SLDR 430 is equipped with a Fujikura Speeder 67 graphite shaft and TaylorMade high-traction grip. The Tour Preferred version, SLDR 430 TP, combines the same clubhead with the tour-caliber Fujikura Speeder Tour Spec 7.3 graphite shaft. A variety of custom shafts are also available. Availability for SLDR 430 and SLDR 430 TP begins December 20 at a suggested retail price of $399. For more information, visit taylormadegolf.com.

(PHILADELPHIA, Pa.) - For the sixth year in a row, Mystic Dunes Resort in Orlando, Florida will serve as the official headquarters of the award-winning GolfTalk Live radio show during the annual PGA Merchandise Show.

GolfTalk Live will be providing a full week of coverage from the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando. Coverage begins with the PGA Merchandise Show preview show, a live remote broadcast at Mystic Dunes Resort, on Jan. 18. Mystic Dunes general manager, Nick Dunleavy, will be along as co-host to explain what the mammoth golf show means to the area in terms of business and exposure. Also, Mystic Dunes head professional Nick Slattery will be a guest to explain what is new on the golf course. In addition, show host Tony Leodora will have preview interviews with leaders in the golf industry. All will give their personal view of this year's show.

Also, beginning Jan. 21, Leodora will write a daily series of Blog stories - giving an inside look at what is happening at the PGA Merchandise Show. He will cover Demo Day and the three days of action with 1,000 exhibitors at the Convention Center.

On Jan. 25, from 7-8 a.m., another GolfTalk Live show will come from Mystic Dunes. Scheduled interviews include celebrities from the PGA Show as well as executives who will report on the latest news about equipment, apparel and accessories.

GolfTalk Live airs 52 weeks a year from 7-8 a.m. each Saturday on flagship station WNTP 990-AM in Philadelphia, as well as from 3-4 p.m. on WOND 1400-AM in South Jersey. It also can be heard live on www.wntp.com, as well as any time after the show airs, by going to the website, www.golftalklive.net.

For more information about the GolfTalk Live radio show or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, contact TL Golf Services at 610-279-9220.

(Hayward, CA) - TPC Stonebrae has retained its designation as a "Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary” through the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, an Audubon International program.

The golf course was originally designated as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary in 2010, and is one of 69 in California and 869 courses in the world to receive the honor. Courses from the United States, Canada, Africa, Australia, Central America, Europe, South America, and Southeast Asia have also achieved certification in the program.

“The original environmental goals presented during design and construction seven years ago have been fully realized,” said David Davies, Superintendent of TPC Stonebrae. “That vision continues to be a part of our daily maintenance philosophy.”

Participation in the program is designed to help course personnel plan, organize, implement, and document a comprehensive environmental management program and receive recognition for their efforts. To reach certification, a course must demonstrate that they are maintaining a high degree of environmental quality in a number of areas including: Environmental Planning, Wildlife & Habitat Management, Outreach and Education, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, and Water Quality Management.

"TPC Stonebrae shown a strong commitment to its environmental program. They are to be commended for their efforts to provide a sanctuary for wildlife on the golf course property," said Laura Karosic, Associate Director of Environmental Programs at Audubon International.

After designation, courses go through a recertification process every two years. This year the recertification process required a visit by a local community representative. Gary Ingram, Director of Agronomy at the Golf Course Superintendents Association of Americia (GCSAA), was given a tour of the course and sent his observations to Audubon International.

“I was honored to be asked to tour TPC Stonebrae on an Audubon International recertification visit and learn about their extensive environmental efforts. Stonebrae is a perfect example how golf courses and golf course superintendents can be an integral part of Mother Nature’s success.”

“We see the site visit as an important component of a course’s recertification,” stated Karosic. “It provides an objective verification of some of the more visible aspects of the course’s environmental management activities. In addition, it offers an opportunity for golf course representatives to share publicly some of the voluntary actions they have taken to protect and sustain the land, water, wildlife, and natural resources around them.”

More than a thousand golfers started this year's Web.com Q School with the same goal in mind, to make Final Stage and earn Web.com status for the 2014 season. A total of 152 players, including a 101 past NGA Tour players, achieved that goal and have spent the past six days competing at Final Stage to determine their playing positions for the upcoming 2014 season.

While the goal at the beginning of Q School is to make Final Stage, for those who do successfully navigate the rigors of Q School, the goal quickly changes to earning exempt status. While every participant at Final Stage earns Web.com status, only the top 45 and ties earn exempt status and are guaranteed starts at the beginning of the season. Eleventh and ties through 45th and ties are guaranteed exempt status until the second reshuffle of the 2014 season, which occurs after the eighth event. Second through 10th and ties are exempt until the third reshuffle of the 2014 season, which occurs after the 12th event of the season. And the Medalist, the ultimate goal for every Q School participant, earns full exempt status for the 2014 season and is exempt from the periodic reshuffles. For one 2013 NGA Tour Pro Series member, Zack Fischer, that ultimate goal was achieved.

Fischer (out of Wake Village, Tex.) joined the NGA Tour Pro Series before the start of the 2013 season after playing collegiately at the University of Texas-Arlington. He quickly made his presence known on the NGA Tour with a tie for 3rd in the NGA's Killearn Country Club Classic, his first ever NGA Tour event and the 1st event of the 2013 Pro Series. He would start Final Stage with a first round 3-over par 75 and found himself in the middle pack after the first day. Fischer described his emotions as "negative, very negative" after his first round. His emotions would turn quickly after firing a second round 67 and would only get better with each following day, along with his play, as Fischer followed with rounds of 66, 65, and back to back 64's to earn the win and Medalist Honors. The win was a great way to finish an outstanding 2013 season which saw Fischer Monday qualify into three PGA events and qualify into the US Open after a 12-hole playoff with three-time PGA winner Ryan Palmer. Fischer was one of 62 2013 NGA Tour players and one of 39 2013 NGA Tour members to compete in Final Stage, reaffirming the NGA Tour's place as the top developmental tour in the United States.

Altogether 32 NGA Tour alums finished at tied 42nd or better, with six finishing inside the top 10, to earn exempt status for the upcoming 2014 season. Steve Saunders and Tony Finau were the next highest finishing NGA alums at tied for 3rd. Finau finished tied for 2nd earlier this year at the NGA's Mountain Lakes Classic. Some other notable NGA Tour alums include 2011 NGA Tour members Andy Pope and Sam Saunders, who finished T11. 2013 NGA Tour Pro Series member, and 2012 David Toms Award Winner, Brad Schneider finished at 14th while fellow 2013 NGA Tour Pro Series members Matt Hendrix and Blayne Barber finished T22, both winners on the NGA Tour earlier this year. Hendrix also earned the NGA Tour event exemption into the Utah Championship earlier this year while Barber was named the NGA's Rookie of the Year. 2012 NGA Tour Co-Rookie of the Year Jonathan Randolph finished T32 with fellow 2013 NGA Tour Pro Series members Travis Bertoni, Zack Sucher, and Jon Curran finishing T42. Curran was named the NGA Tour Player of the Year for 2013.

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

(CARLSBAD, Calif.) – COBRA PUMA GOLF officially announced a partnership extension with Swedish-born professional golfer Jonas Blixt. Originally signed to COBRA PUMA GOLF’s roster in January 2011, Blixt will continue to represent the company through global marketing initiatives, using COBRA Golf equipment and wearing PUMA Golf apparel, footwear and accessories.

“Jonas has given a strong performance on the course with our products over the past three years, and we’re thrilled to further support him as he continues his ascension in the world rankings,” said Bob Philion, president of COBRA PUMA GOLF. “His style and skill set make him a perfect ambassador for both the COBRA and PUMA brands, and we look forward to watching his ongoing success.”

Blixt, who has secured two professional wins since signing with COBRA PUMA GOLF and is currently no. 41 in world rankings, has played a large role in increasing the company’s global exposure and following. He was victorious in both the 2012 Frys.com Open and 2013 Greenbrier Classic. The 2013 British Open was his first-ever Major, which was followed by his appearance at the PGA Championship, at which he ended in fourth place.

“I’ve been a longtime fan of the COBRA and PUMA brands, and I’m excited to continue representing both in years to come,” said Blixt. “Being a COBRA PUMA GOLF athlete has played a significant role in helping me achieve my current ranking, and I’m looking forward to having the company’s continued support to reach the next level.”

Illinois-native Brad Hisel to take over at Bull Valley Golf Club; Russ Onizuka returns to Black Gold Golf Club

(NORTHBROOK, Ill.) – KemperSports, the most trusted name in golf, has chosen Brad Hisel as general manager at Bull Valley Golf Club in Woodstock, Ill. and Russ Onizuka as general manager at Black Gold Golf Club in Yorba Linda, Calif.

A native of Crystal Lake, Ill., Hisel brings with him more than 12 years of experience in the golf club industry that includes general manager duties at High Point Golf Club in Montague, N.J., and New York Country Club in Hempstead, N.Y., where he was responsible for adding 100 new members over a three-year span.

In addition to the golf course, the Club includes a recently renovated 37,000 square-foot clubhouse featuring multiple dining rooms, grill, men’s and women’s locker rooms, pro shop, member lounge, and two banquet rooms that can host up to 400 guests. Expansive outdoor gathering spaces can accommodate weddings and gatherings up to 300 guests, making Bull Valley one of the most sought after event venues in the northwest suburbs of Chicago.

“Bull Valley is one of the iconic clubs in the Northwest Chicago region,” said Steve Skinner, chief executive officer of KemperSports. “We are confident that Brad is the leader that we need to benefit the members and their guests at Bull Valley Golf Club.”

Russ Onizuka returns to Black Gold Golf Club as he previously served as director of golf from 2010-2012. In addition to his previous post at the Club, he also has held general manager positions at Foxtail Golf Club in Rohnert Park, Calif., and most recently at Crystal Springs Golf Course in Burlingame, Calif.

Owned by the city of Yorba Linda and managed by KemperSports since opening in 2001, Black Gold Golf Club is a par-72, Arthur Hills design set amongst the rolling hills and beautiful views of the Orange County Foothills.

“Russ has shown a proven track record of success in past leadership roles at Black Gold Golf Club,” said Skinner. “We look forward to new ideas and innovations that can add to the guest experience at the Club.”

Interested in hitting golf balls any time you’d like but don’t have 20 acres at your disposal for a proper driving range? No worries. Thanks to Rukket, all you need is $200 and room to swing.

The RukkNet is described as “simple and FAST to set up and take down, generous in size, durable, light-weight, and versatile.” The website also says it “pops-up instantly to let you practice multiple sports anywhere.”

Let me tell you, I’ve been duped by plenty of equipment companies who’ve make such claims. Time for a test. Results ... Whatever you call it - truth in advertising or a holiday miracle - the RukkNet was simple, fast and popped up instantly!

Don’t believe everything you read? Smart. Click HERE and watch the videos. Obviously, these guys have done it before, but it really is that easy.

If mobility and ease of setting up/breaking down were all that mattered, RukkNet would get a passing grade right away. While those are very important aspects of a portable golf net, it still has to perform. Test and result ... Drivers and 5-irons didn’t budge this beauty.

The RukkNet is made from high-quality netting and a durable spring steel frame. The 4-ply knot-less ball returning net (not cheap mesh) allows the power from each impact to disperse efficiently and will not wear out or get holes. An added benefit of the heavier inside netting is the ball is returned with more force. That’s right - returned. Ease of use!

Back to portability. Weighing in at 14 lbs. and folding flat to a 32-inch diameter, you can take RukkNet anywhere. The carrying case is thick canvas with double zippers for long life, capable of carrying a hitting mat, golf balls, attachments and a golf club, it also has a thick, comfortable shoulder strap for long hikes to your favorite practice spot.

But wait, there’s more (cue the infomercial voice)! The RukkNet can also be used for baseball, softball, lacrosse, soccer and football. Whether you’re inside or outside, on concrete or grass, home or away, multiple attachments make RukkNet the most versatile golf net ever created.

RukkNet is the best and most versatile golf net we’ve used. Check it out for yourself at www.rukket.com.

(RIDGELAND, Miss.) - SkyGolf, maker of the #1 Rangefinder in Golf, has retained golf communication specialists Tracy Nackel and Vanessa Price with TEN Marketing & PR to provide public relations and promotional services for the company.

"We hired the TEN Marketing & PR team to oversee a public relations campaign that promotes our brand, our products and our mission. Their industry relationships, golf knowledge, and ability to effectively and creatively promote products within the golf industry were key reasons they were selected. They came highly recommended to us and we're confident they will help SkyGolf optimize its public relations efforts," said Richard Edmonson, CEO, SkyGolf.

SkyGolf offers a complete line of innovative products that include: SkyCaddie, rangefinders that are preloaded and ready-to-play out of the box; SkyPro, golf's most powerful swing analyzer and training tool; ClubSG, golf's fastest growing community where golfers can go to connect to their Game, their Courses, their Equipment, their Golf Professional and to one another; and Swing Labs, the golf industry's first unbiased, performance-based fitting solution.

"We are delighted that SkyGolf has selected TEN Marketing & PR to promote its products and services," said Tracy Nackel. "We look forward to helping them continue to grow their brand in the golf industry and to educate golfers on the benefits of using SkyGolf products to play better and have more fun."

SkyGolf takes no shortcuts when it comes to accurately mapping courses. Only the company's trained, professional TrueGround Mappers walk EVERY course with highly accurate, survey-grade GPS equipment to create original course maps, precise to less than a yard. Only SkyGolf provides the most complete, most reliable and most accurate course maps in the game, so golfers can trust their SkyCaddie rangefinder just like PGA Tour Players trust their caddie.

As a result, only SkyCaddie works hand-in-hand with each of its more than 34,000 golf course partners to ensure that golfers have the benefit of the most up-to-date and reliable course maps in the game today. In addition to distances to all bunkers and hazards, SkyGolf's patented IntelliGreen technology automatically rotates the true shape of the green to match a golfer's angle of approach. This gives golfers a scoring opportunity on every shot, as it provides not only the front carry and back distances, but the depth of the green from any line of approach, just like a TOUR caddie.

Edmonson adds, "We pride ourselves on the reliability and accuracy of all our products and we continually strive to develop products that not only help golfers enjoy the game more, but to help them play better as well. We are introducing some exciting new products in early 2014 and look forward to working with TEN Marketing & PR to promote them to golfers worldwide."

(St. Andrews, Scotland) - References identifying the location of Tom Morris’ first shop have been discovered in manuscripts from the Golf Collection in The University of St. Andrews Special Collections Department. Local golf history writer Roger McStravick, who was carrying out research for a book on the man known as the ‘Grand Old Man of Golf,’ discovered a statement known as a precognition given by Tom Morris himself around 1878 detailing how he built in that same year his own shop beside the St. Andrews Links at what is today 15 The Links.

Roger McStravick and Dr. Anthony Parker

Dr. Anthony Parker, Curator of the Golf Collection at The University of St. Andrews, stated, “We are all very excited by this find. The University has a vast golf collection going back centuries and this news of Tom Morris’ first shop is very likely to be the first of many new findings to come out of the collection.”

“There has always been a gap in Old Tom’s story from 1848 to 1851, before he left St. Andrews to create the course at Prestwick,” McStravick said. “In a pile of very old papers, I noticed a statement from Tom amongst the precognitions taken at the time of the Road Wars, when the town was trying to decide whether to have a road along the side the 18th hole of the St. Andrews Links. In his statement talking about his life around 1848, Tom says that he built his own shop and through statements by others at the time, including the father of the R&A John Whyte-Melville and club maker Robert Forgan, I was able to identify the exact location for this little shop at what is today 15 The Links. I was also delighted to discover from the same precognitions that Daw Anderson, who is known as the ginger beer seller, had his own golf shop at 9 The Links with his son and three time Open champion Jamie Anderson living upstairs for almost 10 years during his Open winning days. Daw was so much more than just a ginger beer seller and thanks to the University’s archives his true story is beginning to emerge.”

Mrs. Sheila Walker, a great-granddaughter to Tom Morris, welcomed the news saying, “There has been a lot of study around my great-grandfather and it is always very exciting when new finds are discovered. Roger is to be commended for his work and, importantly, this highlights just how essential the University’s golf collection is to golf historians and to the field of golf research. I understand the University has ambitions to create a dedicated centre for golf-related materials in St. Andrews and this recent finding is proof, if proof were needed, how vital and appropriate it is to have the centre of all golf knowledge in St. Andrews. If there was ever a logical place to establish an academic centre for golf in the world, then it is surely here.”

Mr. Peter Crabtree, co-author of Tom Morris of St. Andrews: The Colossus of Golf, 1821-1908, also heralded the find saying, “I am always delighted when new research reveals more about Tom Morris. He was a rare character who in addition to being a four time Open champion, helped create the Old Course in St. Andrews as we know it today. The front nine is virtually his own work under the auspices of the R&A Green Committee. We owe so much to Tom Morris and I am delighted the location for his very first shop, at what was a crucial moment in his life, has been discovered.”

“My book would not have been written or the research carried out, if it wasn’t for Peter Crabtree and the late Dr. David Malcolm’s inspirational book on Old Tom, plus the work of David Joy and in particular his portrayal of the great man,” commented McStravick. “It was his re-telling of Tommy’s story during a performance of Old Tom Morris at The Byre Theatre that struck a chord with me and ultimately led me to this finding. Without their work, I would not have made this discovery.”

Regarding the Centre for Golf Collections, Dr. Anthony Parker added, “This new research by Roger is a shining example of what can be achieved from the University’s collection. The University’s hopes for a purpose built Special Collections facility to host its golf collection has caught on with many of the greatest golf collectors and organisations around the world donating rare books, photos and written material already. We are currently engaging in consultation with a wide number of bodies about our aspirations.’

About Roger McStravick
Roger McStravick is a golf history writer living in St. Andrews. His book, St. Andrews, In the Footsteps of Old Tom Morris, will be published in 2014. The book is a guide around the historic golf locations in town, including where legends such as Tommy Morris and Jamie Anderson lived. It also gives an evolution of the St. Andrews Links, re-writing a lot of the perceived wisdom including the creation of the 1st hole.

The Sunice Collection for Spring 2014 is experiencing it's best booking season in 5 years. There is no doubt that the vibrant new colour palette is a contributing factor to this upward momentum in sales increases over previous seasons. Sunice continues to offer the best of the best in a performance layering system for golfers. Renowned for all-weather outerwear Sunice features Gore-Tex, FlexVent and Zephal fabrics. The mid-layer SPORT and base layer X-STATIC Silver Fiber offerings further complement and enhance the entire collection. Sunice combines ultra lightweight textiles with vibrant neon brights injected into the classic palette of commercial tones to keep any golfer feeling comfortable and playing their best.

AUR Golf welcomed a new designer this year to bring an element of freshness and vitality into the already modern and classic design ethos for men and ladies. The collection stands on its own with a refined modern aesthetic by using fabrics in a more sophisticated form. AUR uses the active nature of golf combined with awareness for the environment for inspiration. As many buyers noted, the ease of merchandising AUR in the shop was made easy with the color palette, silhouettes and purposeful offering.

The Spring 2014 Golf Collection of Tommy Hilfiger Golf experienced an anticipated interest this booking season. Designed in keeping with the DNA of the Tommy All-American brand, each collection speaks the preppy, energetic, sporty and playful voice. Traditionally designed with the comfort of cotton, the collection has shifted almost exclusively to performance fabrics that combine style, comfort and performance. Tommy will be sold in many pro shops this spring.

Fletcher's has been an important partner to the golf industry over the past 5 decades. As such, the booking programs, namely the Fletcher FIVE (a flexible incentive program), Bottoms, Basics and Staff Programs are geared to support the shop, encourage loyalty, assist with sell through and offer incentives for professionals to wear the brands on and off course. "We are very excited about Spring 2014 Bookings with all Fletcher brands. Our product development team was solely focused on creating collections that merchandise easily and entice consumers to invest in outfits and our performance layering systems." Says Derek Faith, VP of Sales. "Our sales programs are aggressive, flexible to the dealers needs and supportive of the industry as a whole."

Fletcher's continues to present the lines to its loyal customers with booking deadlines between now and December 31, 2014. For more information, please contact Fletcher's Customer Service at (800) 561-3872 or e-mail info@fletcherlg.com.

"KZG is well known for its award-winning forged irons and wedges which have been played by many of the world's top tour players... and KZG does not pay anyone to play its clubs" reports Jennifer King, president of KZG. "The Forged IV offer the mid-handicap player the same advantages sought by the tour players: triple forged for consistent, workable shots that feel like butter and CNC milled for the tightest tolerances and pin-point accuracy. All of these benefits plus the Forged IV irons are designed for ease of play and forgiveness."

KZG uses virgin carbon steel billets that are heated and forged three separate times to achieve a dense molecular structure that is free of any imperfection. CNC milling of the face, body and scorelines guarantee that every specification is within the tight tolerances mandated by KZG.

The beauty of KZG clubs is that every design is conceived to meet the needs of a particular type of golfer. KZG offers 21 models of irons in three different manufacturing processes with three distinctly different price points. For example, the KZG Forged ME-1 irons are designed for the scratch player, while the new Forged IV are designed specifically for the golfer who wants ease of play and maximum forgiveness and that is achieved through the larger clubhead design, the deep perimeter weighting for forgiveness, the wider sole for more stability and the soft leading edge. The mid to higher handicap player will appreciate the optimal launch and distance they can achieve with these new Forged IV irons.

KZG products are only available through qualified professional teachers and fitters and can be located on the Dealer Locator at KZG.com. MSRP for the Forged IV Irons start at $120 per loft with numerous shaft options available.

(CARLSBAD, Calif.) – Sergio Garcia capped a big weekend for TaylorMade Golf Company with a convincing 4-stroke victory at the Thailand Championship. Meanwhile in South Africa, fellow TMaG staffer Dawie van der Walt grabbed his second career European Title at the Nelson Mandela Championship.

Playing against a strong field that included Justin Rose and Henrik Stenson, Sergio kept his foot on the gas in the final round to post a 22-under 266. Sergio hit blistering drives off the tee with his SLDR and became the first player to win with the company’s new Tour Preferred MC irons. Throughout the tournament, Garcia wore the adizero Tour, adidas Golf’s top-selling model globally and the lightest tour performance shoe the company has ever created.

The not yet released Tour Preferred MC irons combine a player’s shape with a shallow “muscle cavity” to boost MOI, creating an unparalleled blend of beauty, feel, workability and stability. The 3 through 7-irons incorporate TaylorMade’s renowned Speed Pocket technology to promote increased ball speed in the lower portion of the clubface for more consistent ball speed and launch conditions across the entire face.

Sergio’s most memorable shot with his new iron was an ace at the 198-yard, par-3 eighth hole during Friday’s second round.

In South Africa, Dawie van der Walt carded a four-under 66 to win the rain-shortened Nelson Mandela Championship at Mount Edgecombe Country Club. The victory marked the second European Tour win for van der Walt this year, having previously won the Tshwane Open in March. During the tournament, van der Walt played the SLDR Driver and wore adidas Golf apparel, footwear and accessories.